Maradona Trial: Judges Refuse to Recuse Selves

A panel of judges overseeing the trial concerning the death of Argentine football legend Diego Maradona has rejected a motion seeking their recusal, allowing proceedings to continue amid heightened public scrutiny.

The case, which involves eight medical professionals accused of criminal negligence in Maradona’s 2020 death, resumed this week in San Isidro, Buenos Aires Province. Defense lawyers for some of the accused had argued that the judges should step aside, citing concerns over impartiality and prior statements allegedly indicating bias.

However, the court ruled that the claims lacked sufficient merit.

In their decision, the judges maintained that they had conducted themselves in accordance with legal and ethical standards, and that there was no evidence of prejudgment. The ruling clears the way for the trial to proceed without further delay.

Maradona, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, died of a heart attack in November 2020 at the age of 60, just weeks after undergoing brain surgery. His death shocked the world and prompted an outpouring of grief in Argentina and beyond.

An autopsy confirmed he died of natural causes, but a medical panel later concluded that Maradona had been inadequately monitored and could have survived with proper care.

The eight defendants including his neurosurgeon, psychiatrist, and nurses are charged with “simple homicide with eventual intent,” a serious charge under Argentine law that carries a prison sentence of 8 to 25 years if convicted.

The trial is expected to draw widespread media attention as it delves into the circumstances surrounding the final days of the football icon’s life.